Sweet-talking Bachelors hit the Fieldays

Clad in Swanndri, khaki pants and work boots, the eight Rural Bachelor Best of the Best competitors sweet-talked their way through the first round of the competition today.

The Future of Farming presentation marked the start of the ‘Best of the Best’ competition with each bloke being tested on his public speaking ability.

Last year’s Bachelor of the Year, Nick Torrens, from Te Aroha continued his winning form taking out first place with an interactive presentation featuring oversized cue cards to illustrate his speech.

He said family was central to the future of farming and paid tribute to his own family for his success in the industry.

Sustainability was at the core of the presentations with each competitor emphasising the importance of farming for future generations.

Second place went to 2008 Golden Gumboot winner, Mark Woodcock, from Dargaville and 2005 Golden Gumboot and People’s Choice winner, Tony Buckingham, took out third place.

But it was 2006 Bachelor of the Year, Christen Dimond, from Waitomo who had reason to boast.

He was engaged last year and said he was due to be married in December. And despite not placing in the first round he said he already has his prize. “Now I’ve found my perfect match.”

He said it was “love at second sight,” and  was happy to not be competing as an eligible bachelor this year.

“The single guys will get a bit of grief,” he said.

Fiancée, Vanessa Robb, said she watched her man compete in 2006.

“I watched him sing at the Rose and Thorn. I can’t remember what song it was but it was quite entertaining.

“He’s lots of fun. And he’s just quite easygoing, nothing really phases him too much, which is probably why he entered in this,” she said.

Mr Dimond said he was a humble guy and didn’t want to divulge his strengths in the competition, but was looking forward to any challenges involving a tractor.

Eight previous Bachelor of the Year winners will compete over four days at Fieldays for the title of ‘Best of the Best’.